2006 Nissan Murano SL AWD Road Test

Technical

2006 Nissan Murano (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com)

Nissan's famous VQ35DE 3.5L DOHC V6 is the sole offering in the Murano. In the crossover, it puts out 245 hp and 246 lb/ft of torque. The only available transmission is an Xtronic continuously variable type. The AWD system is optional with the SL trim and standard with the SE. 4-wheel disc brakes and a fully independent suspension are regular features on the Murano. Steering is engine-speed sensitive power assisted.

On the road

As the Murano shares a platform with the Maxima and Altima, the drive is generally very car-like. That is, until the road surface deteriorates and this is especially true for the rear passengers. The impression that I get is that the Murano is over-sprung. Any rut or bump sends the rear axle shooting madly upwards. In city cruising, I received many complaints from rear

2006 Nissan Murano (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com)

occupants and I remember having sat in the back and not having liked the experience. On the highway though, the Murano feels stable and surefooted. A better set of tires than the OE Goodyear ones would greatly increase the trucks ability to clip corners.

Nissan's V6 is as amazing as ever. Even though my tester barely had 700 km on the clock, it moved the 1,820 kg truck with ease. Throttle response is good and accelerating and passing is brisk. What is also delectable is the growl emitted by the sixer; it is deep and meaningful. My week-long test involved a large amount of highway driving and it is to this that I attribute my relatively low 12 L / 100 km fuel consumption. I can, without difficulty, imagine that it would climb to over 13 L in more mixed driving.

The rack and pinion gearing seems exaggerated; the steering wheel requires almost a full turn to get the wheels to rotate 45 degrees. Precision is not completely off however feedback from the road is spoiled. The big discs scrub off speed with authority through a tight well balanced pedal.

Safety

The car has standard dual front, side and side curtain air bags, active head restraints, ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and assist, traction and stability control (SE only) and seatbelt

2006 Nissan Murano (Photo: Philippe Champoux, Auto123.com)

pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) awarded the Murano 5 out of 5 stars (a perfect) for all occupants in both frontal and lateral impacts. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) has rated it "Good" in its category.
Conclusion

The Murano is one SUV that really deserves the Sport part of the name. It is also versatile but there are some strong issues with comfort because of the truck's super-stiff suspension. Those that are looking for a softer vehicle should look into the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot.